Bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth are signs of something more serious, periodontal disease. At Dr. Dwayne Bodie’s dental office in Nyack, we offer personalized periodontal disease treatment in Nyack to help you get your healthy mouth back and overall well-being.
What is Periodontal Disease Treatment?
Periodontal disease treatment stops, manages and reverses gum disease. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, affects the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. If left untreated it can lead to gum recession, bone loss and eventually tooth loss.
This affects your oral health and makes everyday tasks, like eating or smiling uncomfortable. It also affects your overall health as research has linked periodontal diseases to systemic diseases like cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and even Alzheimer’s disease. So yes periodontal disease is serious but it’s treatable, especially if caught early.
Our periodontal disease treatment in Nyack is designed to help you maintain a healthy mouth and prevent long term complications.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Wondering why you’ve been experiencing bleeding gums or puffy gums lately? Periodontal disease usually develops due to a combination of factors:
- Poor oral hygiene: The most common cause is plaque buildup due to lack of brushing and flossing.
- Tartar buildup: When plaque hardens into tartar it becomes much harder to remove without professional cleaning.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause or puberty can make gums more sensitive.
- Health conditions: Diabetes, cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis increase your risk.
- Poor nutrition: Lack of essential nutrients weakens your immune system.
- Smoking and tobacco use: These habits increase your risk.
- Medical history: If gum disease runs in your family you may be more prone to it.
- Systemic diseases: Chronic illnesses compromise your ability to fight infections like periodontal disease.
According to the American Dental Association and national health organizations like the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, lifestyle choices, genetics and underlying health conditions are major risk factors.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Not sure if you have gum disease? Here are some common signs to watch out for:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Puffy, red or swollen gums
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose or sensitive teeth
- Painful chewing
- Gum tissue pulling away from teeth (creating deep pockets)
- Changes in how your teeth fit together
- Sensitive teeth or exposed roots
- Plaque and tartar accumulation near the gumline
Symptoms may come and go but tend to get worse if left untreated. Even if the signs are mild, early detection is key.
When to See a Dentist
You should see a dentist as soon as you notice:
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Gum recession
- Swollen or tender gums
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Tooth sensitivity
If you wait too long the disease can advance into chronic periodontitis or even advanced periodontitis which often results in irreversible damage, bone loss and tooth loss.
Early intervention means simpler, less invasive treatment options. Seeing a dentist regularly can prevent periodontitis and protect both your teeth and your overall health.
How We Diagnose and Assess It
When you come to Dr. Dwayne Bodie for periodontal disease treatment in Nyack, here’s what you can expect:
- Comprehensive medical history review – We review any health conditions or risk factors that may be contributing to gum disease.
- Visual examination – We check for signs of puffy gums, bleeding or gum recession.
- Periodontal charting – Using a tiny ruler called a periodontal probe, we measure the depth of gum pockets around your teeth.
- X-rays – These help us detect bone loss that can’t be seen visually.
- Professional cleaning – In some cases this helps us both diagnose and start treatment at the same time.
The whole appointment typically takes 45–60 minutes and you’ll leave with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease
There are several ways to treat gum disease depending on how far it has progressed.
Nonsurgical Treatments
If caught early nonsurgical treatment may be all you need:
- Professional Cleaning – Removes plaque and tartar buildup on the tooth surfaces and below the gumline.
- Scaling and Root Planing – A deep cleaning done by a dental hygienist that smooths the root surfaces to remove bacteria.
- Tissue Stimulating Proteins – Help regenerate healthy gum tissue.
- At-home care – You’ll be given tips and tools to maintain a healthy mouth at home.
Surgical Procedures
If you have deeper pockets or advanced periodontitis, we may recommend:
- Pocket Reduction Surgery – Reduces the depth of pockets and allows better access for cleaning.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration – Encourages regrowth of bone and gum tissue lost to periodontitis.
- Bone Grafting – Uses your own bone or synthetic materials to rebuild lost bone support.
- Soft Tissue Grafts – Covers exposed roots and reduces gum recession.
- Regenerative Procedures – Helps your body rebuild the structures that support your teeth.
Each of these treatments is designed to restore your gum health and stop disease progression.
Why Choose Dr. Dwayne Bodie for Periodontal Disease Treatment in Nyack?
At our Nyack office we believe in providing pain free care that puts your comfort first. Here’s why patients trust us:
- Experienced care – Dr. Bodie stays up to date with advances in periodontal treatments, including evidence from Carranza’s Clinical Periodontology and systematic reviews.
- Advanced technology – We use the latest tools for early detection and accurate treatment.
- Personalized plans – No two mouths are the same, so your treatment plan is customized to you.
- Sedation options – For patients who feel anxious.
- Flexible appointments – Same day care and emergency visits.
- Insurance friendly – We’ll help you understand your coverage and financing options.
Whether you have early stages of gum disease or untreated periodontitis, we can help you get your smile back.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
Prevention is the key. Here’s how you can keep your gums healthy for life:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco
- Eat a balanced diet with vitamins C and D
- Visit your dentist for check-ups and cleanings
- Watch for warning signs like bleeding gums or loose teeth
- Manage chronic illnesses like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
With good oral hygiene and regular care, you can prevent periodontitis and have a healthy mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Periodontal Disease Treatment
What happens if periodontal disease is left untreated?
If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, bone loss and even systemic diseases like heart problems. It can also increase the risk of preterm birth and Alzheimer’s disease.
Is periodontal disease contagious?
No, but the bacteria that cause gum disease can be shared through saliva. So good oral hygiene is even more important in households.
Can I reverse periodontal disease at home?
You can reverse early stages (gingivitis) with good brushing, flossing and professional cleanings. More advanced stages require periodontal treatment by a dentist.
How long does treatment take?
That depends on the severity. Non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing may only take a couple of visits. More advanced surgical procedures may take several months.
Does insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Many dental insurance plans cover at least part of periodontal treatments if they’re medically necessary. Our office staff can help you understand your coverage and options.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Don’t ignore the signs of gum disease. The sooner you get care the easier and more comfortable the treatment will be. Whether you have bleeding gums, sensitive teeth or just want to prevent periodontal disease, Dr. Dwayne Bodie can help.
Call (845) 358-5110 today